Biological indicators for the assessment of human exposure to organophosphorous compounds.
The aim of the present study is to review selected biological effects of organophosphorous compounds used as pesticides and to discuss their significance in terms of occupational exposure. The results of a long-term study of the red cells and plasma ChE in group of workers engaged in the production of pesticides are also presented. Cholinesterase activity in plasma and red blood cells was determined spectrophotometrically by the Ellman modified method. Occupational exposure to pesticides was analysed by the Durham and Wolf method.


CONCLUSIONS
1. Cholinesterase activity in blood serum of the workers employed at the production of organophosphorous compounds is statistically significantly lower, compared to the control group and the lower accepted standard limit. 2. Cholinesterase activity in plasma seems to be a more sensitive indicator of exposure, compared to the activity of enzyme contained in erythrocytes after a long-lasting exposure to low levels of organophosphorous compounds. 3. Changes in cholinesterase activity according to the level of exposure show a better correlation if the exposure is expressed in % of the toxic dose/day than in mg/day. Toxicological properties of organophosphorous compounds are of the great importance for this correlation.
Podolak
M
M
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agricultural University in Lublin.
Panasiuk
L
L
D000110:Acetylcholinesterase / Q000097:blood; D015415:Biomarkers / Q000032:analysis; D002617:Chemical Industry; D002709:Chlorfenvinphos / Q000009:adverse effects; D002802:Cholinesterases / Q000097:blood*; D004784:Environmental Monitoring / Q000379:methods*; D004912:Erythrocytes / Q000201:enzymology; D005260:Female; D005278:Fenitrothion / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D008294:Malathion / Q000009:adverse effects; D008297:Male; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000032:analysis*; D009943:Organophosphorus Compounds / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity
D015415:Biomarkers; D009943:Organophosphorus Compounds; D000110:Acetylcholinesterase; D002802:Cholinesterases; D002709:Chlorfenvinphos; D008294:Malathion; D005278:Fenitrothion